Monika Maria Ward

Monika M. Ward, 68, a long-time resident of East Wenatchee passed away on Friday, November 22, 2013 at Central Washington Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Monika was born on April 23, 1945 in Duisburg, West Germany, to Hildegard Vogel. In March of 1947, Hilde met Chuck, a handsome American soldier, and in 1948 they were married. He brought his family back to the United States and quickly adopted Monika because he felt she was 'his'. They settled in Wenatchee where Monika started elementary school. In 1956 the family moved to Waterville where she continued her education, graduating in 1963. Upon graduation she moved back to Wenatchee where she married and started her family having two beautiful daughters, Tammy and Kathy. In 1969 she met and married Cecil Bridges. Together they were very involved in stock car racing at East Wenatchee Speedway where Cecil drove Super Stocks and Monika always made sure she had her turn in the Powder Puff division. In 1974 she began her career in Real Estate and spent many years at Davenport Realty, Coldwell Banker and Century 21. During this time she was proud to be a member of Real Estate's Million Dollar Club on several occasions. In 1985 Monika met and married Arlie Ward Jr., together they made their home in East Wenatchee and ran an apple orchard. Monika loved to try her luck at Mill Bay Casino, but some of her best times were with her mother on Wednesday nights at the Bingo hall. They had a passion for BINGO like no other. Other passions were her dogs and the Seattle Seahawks. Monika had many great friends...Bobbie Leskinen, who was like a sister, Sharon Thomas (Big Red), Pat Bellinger and Carol Adams. All of you, your love and support will not be forgotten. There are many more and Monika treasured all of them, near and far. Monika is survived by her two daughters, Tammy (Dave) Niehaus of Snoqualmie, WA and Kathy Jeffery of Wenatchee; Her father, Chuck (Esther) Thompson, Wenatchee; siblings, Allen (Donna) Thompson of Ephrata, Tessie Kelley, Wenatchee, Melinda (Danny) White, Wenatchee, Tommie Thompson, Wenatchee; three grandchildren, Destiny, Lexi and Spencer; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Monika was preceded in death by her Mother, Hilde, infant grandson, Christopher Bridges and good friend, Pete 'Trapper' Travis. A Celebration of Life will be held on December 7, 2013, 11:00 am at Heritage Memorial Chapel, East Wenatchee. Family and friends are invited to view her online guestbook at www.HeritageMemorialChapel.com . Arrangements are in the care of Heritage Memorial Chapel, East Wenatchee.

Monika Maria Ward

April 23, 1945 - November 22, 2013